Women warned against use of alum powder

Nomthandazo Mtonga, Sunday News Reporter
HEALTH practitioners have warned against the use of alum powder (potassium aluminium sulphate) that has become a hit among women who allege it dries out excess fluids in their reproductive system and enhances sexual pleasure.

The health practitioners say the substance contains chemicals that cause more harm to the system than the good that is assumed.

According to pharmacists, alum powder is traditionally sold as treatment for mouth ulcers and tonsillitis. They say they are aware of the misuse of the powder as a tightening substance.

A general practitioner from a private hospital strongly discouraged the use of the powder saying the chemicals in the substance are very dangerous considering the delicacy of the female reproductive system.

Street vendors, however, trade it for as low as a US$1 to women who need it. An anonymous alum vendor confirmed positive results in the “newly found use of the powder”.

“So far, I get good comments from clients who say their partners were happy. As long as it is not overdosed all is well,” she said.

However, gynaecologist, Dr Elton Sengurayi from the Women’s Clinic in Bulawayo denounced its use saying it alters the natural state of the female reproductive system.

“Potassium aluminium sulphate is considered generally safe to humans if used appropriately. Because of its hygroscopic properties it can be used in constipation, excessive perspiration, et cetera. If used in the genitalia it causes absorption of water from surrounding tissues. This causes shrinkage and dehydration of the tissues – hence the tightening properties.

“The downside is that the female reproductive area is not meant to be naturally dry, hence may cause unnecessary unwanted effects. These may include infections and ulcerations,” he said.

Herbalist Patience Phiri also discouraged the use of the substance.

“I would like to discourage women from inserting anything into their private parts because they are putting themselves at risk of infections and cervical cancer. Once virginity is lost; it can no longer be recovered. I therefore prescribe kegels, a proper diet and education on sex. Use of unprescribed medications is not healthy,” she said.